1934 Pierce-Arrow Model 836A Sedan

This 1934 Pierce-Arrow Model 836-A Sedan was offered for sale at the 2007 Worldwide Group Auction held at Hilton Head Island, SC where it was estimated to sell for $45,000 - $55,000. Power is from the 366 cubic-inch L-head eight-cylinder engine which has a bore of 3.5 inches and a stroke of 4.75 inches.

The original owner of this car was Mr. Ernest W. Burdick of New York, New York, and has had only three owners since new. Its second owner lived in the pleasant climate of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, and its third owners live just north of there, in Savannah, Georgia.

The second owner treated this car to a frame-off restoration in 1992. During that time it was given a correct high-speed rear end and a six to twelve-volt starting system. Other slight modifications have been made to improve the vehicle's drive and reliability. A modern radio has been fitted under the dash; an electric radiator fan was installed to assist with the cooling of the motor, and an electric fuel pump was fitted to assist with the starting of the engine.

At the auction, the car was sold for $47,300. The auction was held the day prior to the Hilton Head Concours d'Elegance. Prior to the auction, this vehicle had received an invitation to participate in the Concours, so the new owners had the owner of displaying their new purchase on Concours day.

By Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2007

The Pierce-Arrow is one of the great early American automotive producers. Their first offering was the Great Arrow, followed by such greats as the 36, 48, and 66. Their cars were renowned for their quality, durability, and style. Their massive engines easily carried the stately bodies in luxury and comfort. The 1920s were rough for the Pierce-Arrow Company. The company had been content with its style and its engines. As a result, did not keep up with the changing market trends and new inventions. Before long, they were offering outdated engines and finding it hard to compete.

By 1928 the Pierce-Arrow Company had changed ownership to Mr. Albert R. Erskine, the President of Studebaker. Under his direction, new engines, features, and bodies were introduced. By 1929, the company had regained momentum and had sold nearly 10,000 vehicles that year. The Great Depression was a difficult time for many businesses, even Pierce-Arrow.

The Model 836 was the first car to have hydraulic valve lifters, full-flow oil filtration, and oil temperature control. It also sports ball-bearing spring shackles and a five-foot-long muffler, ensuring near-silent operation.

1934 was the first year of the 'round' body and 'fast back' trunk.

This car has a 136-inch wheelbase, eight-cylinder engine, 3.5-inch bore by 4.5-inch stroke, generating 135 hp, and weighs 5640 lbs. The original purchase price was $2695 with total production reaching 500 examples.

This car was treated to an engine rebuild in September of 2004 by Andy Greene, a Vintage race car renovation specialist. It is a great antique Touring car. The owner has participated in Tours in Utah, Virginia, Minnesota, and several other states.

'A Pierce-Owner was a person not only of considerable means but discriminating taste and astute judgment. Directed solely to those of high social status,' as quoted from Vanity Fair. They were made to be attended by footmen and driven by chauffeurs. By 1918 Pierce-Arrow was a car of staggering proportions in both name and size, costing $8000 when a Ford cost $525 and a Packard Six Imperial Limousine sold at a 'modest' $5850.

The Great Depression hit Pierce-Arrow especially hard. Not only had many of Pierce-Arrows customers lost fortunes in the fall of the stock market, but it had become unfashionable to 'display wealth' with extravagant automobiles. In an attempt to widen its customer base, Pierce introduced the 836A model in 1934. It had a 135 bhp 366 cubic-inch straight 8 powerplant and cost 'only' $2295 (which was the price of 4 Fords). This was the least expensive model in the company's 30-year history, yet it was built to the same time-honored standards of excellence. It was still too expensive for the masses and did not appeal to the traditional Pierce-Arrow customer. Less than 500 were ever made. By 1938, Pierce-Arrow was in bankruptcy and was liquidated.

The popular paint combination of the 836X was Midnight Blue over black, though customers could order a Pierce in any color they desired.